A planning tool for improving the provision of loading docks

Abstract

For freight and servicing movements entering a city, parking provides the access enabling service to customers. This will invariably occur on the street in parking spots or in modern buildings in off-street facilities. In light of changing urban planning priorities and as a result, declining on-street loading zone spaces, this paper explores the provision and challenges of off-street loading docks to support freight and servicing task activity in major urban centres. While it may not be fully appreciated, provisions to adequately accommodate a city's generated freight task is critical to urban planner's broader objectives. As a non-discretionary transport task, freight vehicles will continue to enter cities. If good off-street loading dock facilities are not provided, vehicles will seek out legitimate or illegal on-street parking, and urban planner's place making objectives are likely to be compromised.The paper first considers the planning approaches that govern the provision of loading docks. This paper focuses on Sydney but draws on comparisons primarily to the Borough of City of London. Based on recent observations in Sydney, it then considers various stakeholder perspectives towards loading dock provision and use. Modelling approaches to forecast better requirements that could assist to overcome the planning issues faced are then outlined. The paper concludes with actions taken to address the challenges.